Our Alumni

Andy Naftz, 2016 M.F.A. in Technical Direction - Engineering Manager at IWEISS Theatrical Solutions, New Jersey.  Andy manages a team of 2 drafters and 2 mechanical engineers. He and his team produce drawings for pipe grids, full counterweight systems, wire tension grids, rigging automation, and much more. IWEISS sells the products directly to clients and we also install many of the rigging systems.  They work with other trades to coordinate installations in a range of venues, whether it be a newly renovated space to a building being built from the ground up.  Andy quoted, "It’s been exciting to make this transition into my new career. Virginia Tech’s program really gave me the confidence I needed to take on this role."

Travis Gilmore, 2012 M.F.A. in Technical Direction - Assistant Technical Director at Oregon Shakespeare Festival